This most advanced programme is for serious Christian Leaders who already have a Master’s degree of some kind from a seminary or college in Theology, Biblical Studies, or similar, and/or leaders with extensive biblical study and leadership experience that can be proven (an example might be a long term senior pastor of a major church that has thousands of pages of bible study and sermon notes). The PhD program is flexible, yet comprehensive in scope and allows biblical scholars to tailor the program to suit their specific needs. Candidates on the program will get to equip themselves with the full armor, and come to truly understand how the sword of the Spirit is the Word of God (Eph 6:17).
The PhD is open to students who have completed an MA in Theology of some kind, or an MA in Ministry or Biblical Leadership. The requirement is to complete 160 ECTS credits, 80 US-style credits. These credits are split as follows:
- 3 modules (24 ECTS credits)
- PhD Dissertation (136 ECTS credits)
Total = 160 ECTS credits
The Dissertation (deep investigation into a subject of Practical Theology, books or series of books of the Bible) should be approximately 90,000 words. Students will be required to take this subject into new waters, the hallmark of a PhD, and this may require extensive research or even trips to appropriate sites. In some instances, you may be able to transfer credit / exit points from your prior learning (Recognition of prior learning), or apply something you have already done, but this is very rare. An example would be if you had spent three years teaching the book of Acts and published a book on the subject. This would be relevant, but then the question would become, what do you see that is new? Never forget that this is the highest level and Warnborough is known for tough academic standards. A PhD committee will explore your work and you will have to defend it as groundbreaking and intensive.
The modules are delivered online and through direct communication with your mentor, but are merely to fine tune https://www.caladrius.com/online-pharmacy/ your skills and prepare you for the research and writing. The three modules are a month in length and consist of:
- Bible Overview and Exploration of Practical Theology Topics.
- How to Develop a Relevant and Cutting-Edge Dissertation Topic and perform the necessary research.
- Editing and Re-Editing. How to Fine Tune your Topic and Present your Dissertation Idea for Approval. This may be repeated until your idea is specific and focused and you are ready to proceed.
After those Modules, which as you can see are designed to help you develop your topic and prepare for the strenuous research, you will need to work with your mentor to divide your work into 160 ECTS credits. All research work must be approved by the Academic Board in the first instance, and you may receive further questions of clarity from your committee. Because of the flexibility of the WCI program and large numbers of possible topics, learners can work with their mentor to structure their program in the context of their professional and academic goals. Always keep in mind that the idea within this program is to be practical or pragmatic in your approach. Will this idea be useful and push the theological world forward?
The Dissertation (called a Thesis in Europe) should be a comprehensive study of an area of Practical Theology and composed in academic and research paper style (MLA preferred, but others including APA and footnote accepted), with ample sources and textual quotes (typically a minimum of 100 sources). The resulting Dissertation/Thesis should be no less than 90,000 words (approximately 300 pages), and no more than 120,000 words or approximately 400 pages (Times New Roman 12 font double space).
Fees
The full program costs Euros €24,000 (approximately US$28,700).
You can pay in 9 equal instalments every 4 months. Alternatively, you can propose a different plan for our consideration.
Scholarships
Mature Students (60 years & over) automatically receive a scholarship of €3,000.
Other scholarships are available for those who merit it academically and/or financially. Mature Students DO NOT have to complete an Application for Scholarship.
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